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Goodwill Sales Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sales Associate

Concord, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Summary of Position This is a part-time customer service role in which the sales associate gives ... building goodwill for Rockler Companies, Inc. * May assist with unloading trucks, pricing and ...

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Goodwill Sales Associate information

See California salary details

$8

$17

$32

How much do goodwill sales associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for goodwill sales associate in California is $17.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Goodwill Sales Associate?

Goodwill Sales Associates are retail employees who work in Goodwill stores, assisting customers with purchases, restocking merchandise, maintaining store cleanliness, and providing excellent customer service. Their duties can include operating cash registers, organizing shelves, and helping with donations. Sales Associates play a key role in supporting Goodwill’s mission by ensuring a positive shopping experience and helping generate revenue to fund community programs.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a Goodwill Sales Associate?

To thrive as a Goodwill Sales Associate, you generally need strong customer service skills, basic math abilities, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, cash registers, and inventory management tools is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and adaptability help associates stand out in a fast-paced retail environment. These skills are crucial for ensuring positive customer experiences, efficient store operations, and supporting Goodwill's mission.

What are common challenges faced by Goodwill Sales Associates, and how can they be managed?

Goodwill Sales Associates often face challenges such as maintaining excellent customer service during busy periods, handling a wide variety of donated merchandise, and keeping the sales floor organized. To manage these, associates typically work closely with team members to restock shelves efficiently, learn the store's layout for quicker assistance, and practice patience and adaptability with both customers and donations. Regular training and supportive teamwork help associates develop the skills needed to succeed and grow within the organization.

What cities in California are hiring for Goodwill Sales Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Goodwill Sales Associate job openings:

Temporary Outlet Sales Associate FT - Salinas (Ends 10/14/2026)

GOODWILL CENTRAL COAST

Salinas, CA

$16.90 - $17.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

GOODWILL CENTRAL COASTOutlet Sales Associate

Pay Range: $16.90- $17.65

Location: Salinas, CA 
Employment Type: Full-Time, Temporary (Ends 10/14/2026)

Do More Than a Job. Make an Impact.

At Goodwill Central Coast, your work has purpose. For nearly 100 years, we've been turning donations into opportunity, creating jobs, removing barriers to employment, and helping people build brighter futures across the Central Coast.

We're looking for an energetic and customer-focused Outlet Sales Associate who enjoys working with people, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and takes pride in providing excellent customer service. This is an opportunity to support retail operations while contributing to a mission that truly makes a difference in the community.

Why Goodwill Central Coast?
  • Company-subsidized medical, dental, vision, and life insurance*
  • 403(b) retirement plan with company matching*
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave*
  • Career development and advancement opportunities
  • A mission-driven workplace where your work makes a difference

*Benefits are subject to eligibility and plan terms.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a dependable, customer-focused, and energetic Outlet Sales Associate to support daily outlet operations. In this role, you will assist customers, stock and organize merchandise, operate cash registers, and help maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming shopping environment. Your dedication to customer service and teamwork will contribute directly to the success of the Outlet and Goodwill's mission.

What You'll Bring
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Retail sales and/or cash register experience preferred
  • Basic math skills
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English; bilingual English/Spanish preferred
  • Strong customer service and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced retail environment
  • Ability to learn company and retail policies and procedures
  • Ability to obtain forklift certification within 90 days of placement in the position, if required
What You'll Do
  • Organize, stock, and display merchandise throughout the Outlet
  • Greet customers with a friendly and professional demeanor
  • Assist customers in locating merchandise and answer questions
  • Operate cash registers and process customer transactions accurately
  • Support opening and closing store procedures
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized shopping environment
  • Remove and sort unsold merchandise for recycling or disposal as appropriate
  • Report customer concerns and operational issues to the Outlet Supervisor
  • Thank customers for shopping with Goodwill and encourage repeat visits
  • Support overall store operations and team objectives
Additional Skills & Abilities
  • Ability to make decisions quickly and confidently
  • Ability to perform a variety of tasks while maintaining efficiency and composure
  • Ability to maintain a strong sales presence with enthusiasm and positive energy
  • Ability to accurately perform cash handling, register operations, deposits, and related paperwork
  • Ability to price merchandise at fair market value
  • Ability to safely move around merchandise, fixtures, and equipment
  • Ability to coordinate hand, eye, and foot movements to safely handle merchandise and equipment
  • Ability to train and support new employees as directed
  • Ability to drive company vehicles and forklifts when authorized
  • Ability to adhere to company safety policies and report hazards promptly
  • Demonstrated reliability and satisfactory attendance
Ready to Work for Good?

If you're ready to use your talents, grow your career, and make a meaningful impact, we want to hear from you.

Bring your talent. Build your career. Be part of the solution.

How to Apply

Apply through Goodwill Central Coast's career portal or follow the application instructions provided in the job posting.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Goodwill Central Coast is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.